Why Source Local Food?
Support the local economy. The purchasing power of businesses has the potential to greatly strengthen other local businesses, such as farms, value-added processors, and small-scale distributors. These jobs allow for a resilient, attractive community that loops back to strengthen the economy as a whole.
Marketing opportunity for your business. Many customers are seeking out local food and choose restaurants and retail options that let them purchase local foods.
Source the best tasting food available. With all the love and creativity that goes into serving meals, start with the freshest, tastiest, and most unique, seasonal ingredients available! The Adirondacks are home to a diverse array of producers, so you can make your menu as delicious and diverse as you wish to imagine.
Show your customers you care for the environment and your community. Sourcing local allows for you to choose to support farms that prioritize issues such as environmental sustainability, humane treatment of animals, food justice, farmworker rights and many other issues. What does your business wish to say, through the power of purchasing dollars and to customers, about these issues?
Two Things to Do If You Want to Start Buying More Local Food
Other Resources for Businesses and Institutions
Stories From Other Local Farms, Businesses and Institutions
Photos provided by Ben Stechschulte in partnership with Essex Farm Institute, and the Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism.
